Kripalu Yoga And Its Benefits
Kripalu Yoga is one of the new Yoga methods introduced by Swami Kripalu. It is Hatha Yoga which is practiced differently. Hatha Yoga is the starting point for the various forms of yoga. ‘Ha’ means sun and ‘tha’ means moon. It is the meeting of the two forces which creates a perfect balance. Like Hatha yoga, Kripalu yoga also combines practices of physical postures, breathing technique, meditation and relaxation to attain physiological health, mental balance and peace of mind.
The focus of Kripalu Yoga is on –
- going with the flow of ‘Prana’ or life force energy,
- observing the mind’s activity without any judgement, and
- connecting with the inner self
There is a profound affinity between ‘prana’ and mental force and it is prana which keeps the mind and body alive. Even a little discord can obstruct the flow of this vital force which has negative impact and makes us fall ill. What we regard as energy or force actually evolves out of Prana. It is present in all forms of life. It is the vital force inside each living being and thought is the highest action of Prana. Breathing and movement of lungs is expression of Prana. Kripalu Yoga helps in distributing Prana equally throughout the whole body and in proper functioning of all systems of the organism.
Kripalu means compassion. The practice of yoga postures is done gently with emphasis on correct breathing and proper alignment. You learn to respect “the understanding and knowledge of the body” and practice yoga postures within the limits of your own strength and capability. It emphasizes on retaining or holding the postures for longer duration which improves concentration and makes you aware of your inner self. You also learn to let go all negative thoughts, stress and pain and start getting healed physically and mentally. It also teaches you ‘meditation in motion’ when moving from one yoga pose to another becomes spontaneous and you experience a state of inner absorption which takes you to a higher level. In Kripalu Yoga, the body is used as a medium for accessing Spirit.
Benefits of Kripalu yoga are :
- Increases energy and flexibility
- Strengthens muscles
- Improves balance
- Improves posture
- Reduces stress
- Improves immune function
- Increases oxygenation of tissues
- Relaxes the nervous system
- Improves the nervous system
- Relieves pain
- Cures chronic ailments
- Improves concentration power and memory
- Better breathing
- Positive outlook
- Connects with your inner self
- Promotes self-acceptance
- Happiness within and beyond
